🔗 Share this article

Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" following an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to Manchester City's loss at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with the referee, Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the broadcast crew's equipment.

"I apologised," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. I am who I am. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."

"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. The reason why I support my squad is clear – because from my experience to win the Premier League we need near-perfect totals, high nineties, or we fall short."

City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment

City are third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."

When questioned if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? Never."

Exchange with Bruno

On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him a long time and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I'm passionate, I love to talk and gesticulate."

He wouldn't mind should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as it's respectful as I do, it's fine," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. My God, he was involved."

Controversial Decisions

City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, and doubted Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Upcoming Milestone

Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, showing we compete we have been there," he commented.

The club has ten points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.